SF2521

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to create a new public body, the Ramsey County Economic Development Authority, to enhance local government capabilities in economic and housing development within Ramsey County, Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• Creation of Authority: The Ramsey County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) is established to handle economic and housing redevelopment initiatives. This new body has broad powers similar to those granted to cities and housing authorities under Minnesota law.

• Governance Structure: The RCEDA will be composed of seven commissioners. The Ramsey County Board is responsible for appointing these commissioners and filling any vacancies. It also has the power to assign existing members of the Ramsey County Housing and Redevelopment Authority to the new economic authority, ensuring continuity and coordination between the two bodies.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expansion of Powers: The bill extends specific powers typically reserved for cities and other housing and redevelopment authorities to the county level. This means Ramsey County gains similar authority over economic development matters as a city would have.

• Operational Scope: The county's governing bodies, such as the county board and its chair, gain powers usually held by city counterparts like city councils and mayors, specifically for the purpose of economic development and housing.

Relevant Terms

• Ramsey County Economic Development Authority
• Housing and Redevelopment Authority
• Commissioners
• Economic Development
• Local Government
• Powers and Duties
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 383A